Bottle Feeding Advice
Preparing Formula
Making up a bottle feed isn't difficult but, as with doing anything new, it can take a bit of practice. That's why we've put together our step-by-step guide to preparing a bottle feed. Have a read through online or print it out and keep it to hand, so you can refer to it until you've got the hang of things.
Remember, if you'd like any more help on preparing a bottle feed, you can always give our advisors a call on 1800 438 500.
- Wash bottles and teats thoroughly.
- Wash your hands and wipe clean all surfaces to prevent the spread of germs.
- Sterilise all utensils by boiling or using an approved steriliser.
- Measure required amount of cool, boiled water (refer to on-pack instructions) into a sterilised bottle or a sipper cup.
- For accuracy, always use scoop provided and level off powder with built-in leveller.
- Alternatively, level with a clean, dry knife.
- Do not press extra powder into scoop.
- Add correct measure of powder to water.
- Adding too many or too few scoops can be harmful.
- The feeding instructions on the pack will give you an indication of the number of feeds your baby may need per day.
- Screw cap on bottle or sipper cup and shake well to dissolve powder in water.
- Test temperature of milk by allowing some drops to fall on your wrist. If it feels comfortable, it should be just right for your baby.
- Use made-up feeds immediately.
- Discard any leftover milk, wash bottles and teats, ready to be sterilised for next feed.
Important considerations when preparing formula
- Check expiry date of formula on base of can or back of sachet.
- Hands should always be washed and dried before expressing milk or preparing formula and bottles.
- Always use sterilised bottles and teats for babies up to 12 months of age.
- Always use the scoop provided with the formula because different formulas may have different scoop sizes.
- Always keep formula in its original can and cover with the plastic lid to prevent contamination of the powder. Do not transfer the powder to another container because there is a high risk of contamination.
- Follow manufacturer's instructions when preparing feeds and don't add more or less powder than recommended. It is important that the formula is made up correctly so the infant gets the correct amount of nutrients.
- The cooled, boiled water should always be put in the bottle first and then the powder added.
- Bottles containing the sterilised water can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.
- Prepared formula should be used immediately. Make up each feed fresh as needed. Do not store prepared formula for later use.
- Once an infant has had some formula from the bottle, the feed should be used within one hour, and then any leftovers discarded.
- Do not leave prepared formula sitting at room temperature or in a warm place.
- Once a can of powdered formula has been opened, it can be safely kept for four weeks if stored in a cool dry place (always check manufacturers' instructions on can).
